FReINDs removes barriers to industrial symbiosis adoption among SMEs by developing a digital ecology framework. It pilots an Industrial Symbiosis Manager curriculum and MOOC, provides training resources and conducts outreach events. Outputs include a digital IS/CE gap analysis, an IS readiness toolkit and a public-authority network to strengthen digital competencies (2024-2026).
freINDs – Fostering Industrial Symbiosis Competences in Higher Education
The freINDs project (Fostering Industrial Symbiosis Competences), funded under the Erasmus+ programme, aims to strengthen higher education capacity in the field of industrial symbiosis and circular economy. The project addresses the growing need for interdisciplinary skills that enable future professionals to design, implement, and manage resource-efficient and circular industrial systems.
freINDs brings together universities, research institutions, and industry partners to co-develop innovative educational content, teaching methodologies, and collaborative learning environments. The project focuses on integrating industrial symbiosis principles into higher education curricula, combining technical, environmental, and socio-economic perspectives.
Through pilot courses, digital learning tools, and international collaboration, freINDs enhances students’ competences and promotes knowledge exchange between academia and industry. The project contributes to the development of a new generation of professionals capable of supporting the transition towards sustainable, circular, and low-carbon industrial ecosystems in Europe.